Peritoneal Surface Malignancies (PSM)
Advanced Cancer Management with Targeted Treatment Approaches
What Are Peritoneal Surface Malignancies?
Peritoneal Surface Malignancies (PSMs) refer to a group of cancers that originate from, or spread to, the peritoneum — the thin lining that surrounds the abdominal organs. These cancers may arise from organs such as the colon, appendix, ovaries, stomach, or can be primary peritoneal cancers like mesothelioma or pseudomyxoma peritonei.
PSMs are often aggressive and can spread extensively across the abdominal cavity, but with modern treatment methods like Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS) and HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy), long-term outcomes have significantly improved.
Common Types of Peritoneal Surface Malignancies
- Colorectal Peritoneal Carcinomatosis
- Appendiceal Cancer (including Pseudomyxoma Peritonei)
- Ovarian and Primary Peritoneal Carcinoma
- Gastric Cancer with Peritoneal Spread
- Peritoneal Mesothelioma
- Peritoneal Metastasis from other cancers
Symptoms of PSM
PSMs may remain silent in early stages. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include:
- Abdominal distension or bloating
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea or indigestion
- Changes in bowel habits
- Fatigue
- Fluid accumulation (ascites)
Diagnosis of Peritoneal Surface Malignancies
Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial. Common diagnostic tools include:
- CT Scan / MRI Abdomen
- PET-CT Scan
- Tumor Marker Blood Tests (CEA, CA-125, etc.)
- Biopsy or Diagnostic Laparoscopy
- Ascitic Fluid Cytology
Treatment Options for PSM
- Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS)
This is a highly specialized surgery that removes all visible tumor deposits from the peritoneal surfaces.
- HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy)
Immediately following CRS, a heated chemotherapy solution is circulated in the abdominal cavity to destroy microscopic cancer cells.
- Systemic Chemotherapy
Used before or after CRS+HIPEC to shrink tumors or prevent recurrence.
- Palliative Care
In advanced cases, symptom control and quality of life are prioritized with supportive treatment and non-surgical options.
Benefits of CRS + HIPEC in PSM
- Improved long-term survival
- Reduced cancer recurrence
- Enhanced quality of life
- Targeted therapy with fewer systemic side effects
- Better outcomes than traditional chemotherapy alone in selected patients
Who is Eligible for CRS + HIPEC?
- Patients with limited peritoneal disease
- Good overall health status
- Cancer confined to the abdominal cavity
- No major organ dysfunction
- Selected advanced cases after neoadjuvant chemotherapy
Why Choose [Your Hospital/Surgeon Name] for PSM Care?
- State-of-the-art modular OT and critical care support
- Integrated approach with medical oncology, pathology & radiology
- Personalized treatment plans with world-class protocols
- Excellent track record in CRS + HIPEC procedures